Sam Philip
Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) candidate in the just concluded Ondo State gubernatorial election, Agboola Ajayi has dragged All Progressives Congress(APC) and its governorship candidate and Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) to the tribunal over what he described as a miscarriage of democracy.
He told journalists on Monday that that he has filed petitions at the Election Petitions Tribunal for redress over the conduct and outcome of the November 16 gubernatorial poll.
Addressing journalists at PDP Secretariat at Alagbaka, Akure on Monday, with the leadership of the party, Agboola Ajayi said: “First and foremost, we thank Almighty God for the peaceful conduct of the election in Ondo State. Since the election, our party has refrained from making public comments to allow time for a comprehensive review of the events that transpired on election day.
“After careful analysis, we have come to express our gratitude to the people of Ondo State for their confidence in us and the maturity they displayed during the elections, despite provocations.
“We want to address certain misconceptions and allegations made against the electorate. There were accusations that our people sold their votes or were compromised. Let it be clear that the will of the people was not for sale.
“The sadness and disappointment witnessed after the election reflect their discontent with the outcome, which, we believe, was a miscarriage of democracy orchestrated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“Despite our previous warnings and even legal action to ensure neutrality within INEC, the institution, unfortunately, failed to act impartially. The election results, as declared, do not reflect the aspirations of the people of Ondo State.
“The declaration of Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the winner by INEC was met with widespread dissatisfaction, as evident in the sombre mood that followed.
“Our party has taken the lawful step of filing a petition at the electoral tribunal. While we will refrain from discussing the case in detail, I assure you that we remain committed to pursuing justice. Our people are educated, resilient, and determined to see democracy upheld.
“We also call on the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act to ensure a transparent and tamper-proof electoral process. The use of BVAS, as currently implemented, has been exploited for manipulation, and we urge its reevaluation ahead of future elections.
“On confidence in the judiciary, despite concerns about the judiciary’s integrity, we maintain confidence in its ability to deliver justice. We are optimistic that the tribunal will fairly adjudicate our case. The judiciary remains a critical institution in preserving democracy, and we urge it to rise to this challenge.”